Are you pursuing the geographic information systems industry? Then you need to know where to get a top online GIS degree. Many of the best online GIS degrees are available from the associate level up to the master’s level. Let’s take a closer look.
Article Navigation: What is a GIS Degree? | GIS Degree Accreditation | Best GIS Certificate Programs Online | Best Online GIS Degree Programs: Associate; Bachelor; Master; Graduate Certificate; PhD | How to Choose an Online GIS Degree | What Can You Do with a GIS Degree? | GIS Salary | Industry Certifications | FAQs
What is a GIS Degree?
A GIS degree is an advanced credential providing the training necessary to work with GIS technology. Examples of this technology include geospatial analysis software, geographic data collectors, etc. Geographic information systems degrees are valuable in careers such as:
- Environmental management
- Planning and development
- Land development industries, among others.
Online GIS programs are excellent ways to learn GIS and can help you jump into this unique field.
GetEducated's Picks
- Johns Hopkins University Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems
- University of West Florida Master of Science in Geographic Information Science Administration
- University of Denver Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
With a GIS degree, you can work as a GIS specialist or analyst. You’ll collect and analyze geographic or geospatial data to help determine things like:
- Flood territories
- How companies can zone real estate properties
- How communities should develop nearby land for maximum benefit
GIS Degree Accreditation
Before pursuing any online GIS degree, ensure each program you consider has relevant accreditation. Regional accreditation is offered by regionally accrediting organizations. For example, SACSCOC and MISHE. Regional accreditation marks entire institutes as high-quality and academically rigorous.
More specialized agencies or organizations provide programmatic accreditation. These bodies examine specific programs in their industries. GIS is a type of computer science and engineering. In this case, it’s important to look for accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology or ABET. That way, employers will see your credentials as trusted and valuable. Other good accrediting bodies to look for include the:
- Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC)
- Applied Science Accreditation Commission (ASAC)
- Technology Accreditation Commission (TAC)
- Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC)
These groups are under ABET. So accreditation from one or all is an excellent mark of program quality. View the top online schools with ABET accreditation.
Best GIS Certificate Programs Online – Undergraduate Level
You have the option of pursuing a GIS certificate program as an undergraduate student. GIS undergrad certificates offer the basics or fundamentals of this field. These students are enabled to work at many entry-level GIS jobs. These jobs include GIS:
- Intern
- Technician
- Analyst
Plus, the courses you take in an online GIS certificate program are almost all transferable to degrees later.
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Certificate in Information Technology / Geographic Information Systems Fundamentals
Asheville-Buncombe’s certificate in GIS Fundamentals is 12 credit hours in total. It offers a foundational range of study for GIS core concepts. Overall, it’s intended for students who already have some computer experience. The GIS online courses split into three semesters by default. However, students can take the classes more quickly if they choose. The program is accredited by SACSCOC.
Fort Hays State University – Certificate in Geographic Information Systems User
Fort Hays’ certificate program is nine credit hours in total. There are only two required courses:
– Introduction to GIS
– Intermediate GISStudents can then choose from one elective on topics like Advanced Cartography. Other options include Remote Sensing Concepts and GIS Programming. It’s an ideal program for students who want to learn the fundamental principles and techniques of GIS. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Florida Atlantic University – Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
Florida Atlantic’s certificate program is 12 credits in total. Nine of which are comprised of core courses like Principles of GIS. Students can choose electives to specialize their education to a limited extent. An example of elective courses is geospatial databases or applications and GIS. All the courses can be transferred to Florida Atlantic’s bachelor’s degree afterward. The program is accredited by SACSCOC.
Columbus State Community College – Geographic Information Systems Certificate
Columbus State Community College offers a GIS certificate fully online. The program equips students with the foundational knowledge needed to succeed in this field. It’s between 18 and 19 credit hours in total. It can be completed in less than a year. Students have the option to choose from a wide range of technical electives as their final course. The program is accredited by the HLC.
Community College of Philadelphia – Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
This certificate GIS program is nine credits in total. Courses cover topics like:
– Advanced geospatial applications
– Principles of computer cartography and visualizationBy the end, students will demonstrate basic proficiency in industry-standard GIS software. MSCHE accredits this program.
Is a GIS Certificate Worth It?
A GIS undergraduate certificate is worth it if you want to try out the field. In other words, a way to learn some fundamental topics before committing to a full degree. Such programs are typically available full-time or part-time. Also, they are generally fewer than 12 credits in total, so they don’t take long to complete. To find a cheap online GIS certificate, check out the list below.
An entry-level GIS job will make anywhere between $50,000 and $60,000 on average. Therefore, a cheap GIS certificate is even more valuable. You can get GIS certificates at community colleges, which offer excellent GIS courses online.
GIS Certificate Program Courses
Since online GIS certificate programs are basic, their courses cover topics like:
- Introduction to GIS
- Computer Cartography
- GIS Fundamentals
Prerequisites
Undergraduate GIS certificate programs have a few prerequisites. Applicants may need to have completed a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Some programs require you to meet a GPA average, but not most. Others may have prerequisite requirements, like completing a computer science class.
Top 5 Online GIS Associate Degree Programs
GIS associate degrees are appropriate stepping stone degrees. Associate degrees can be found at four-year colleges as well as online GIS certificate community colleges. Initially, an associate degree in this field may qualify you for entry-level positions like junior GIS technician jobs. It will also allow you to gain some work experience that qualifies you for higher-paying jobs, especially after earning your bachelor’s degree.
By the end of an associate’s degree, students can capably use GIS systems and tools. They are also proficient with common GIS techniques to collect and analyze spatial or geographic data. The credits from these programs can be transferred to four-year bachelor’s programs in many cases.
Roane State Community College – Associate of Applied Science in Geographic Information Systems
Roan State Community College’s online GIS undergraduate degree takes less than two years to complete. It covers topics like GIS database technology and project management. Students learn how to use high-tech GIS equipment. The result is a GIS credential applicable to mapping, field, and analyst tech jobs. Also, it includes a directed research component. This component is completed at the end of the second summer term, and can be completed online. The program is 63 credits in total, about $4,550 in tuition, and is accredited by SACSCOC.
Clark State College – Associate of Applied Science in Geospatial Technology
Clark State College’s associate program contains an embedded certificate. The certificate is automatically awarded to students who complete certificate requirements. Overall, the associate’s degree prepares students to use, combine, and manage geospatial data capably. The degree is excellent for entry-level positions. It’s 61 credits in total, about $10,542 for tuition, and accredited by the HLC
Columbus State Community College – Associate of Applied Science in Geographic Information Systems
Columbus State Community College has one of the best GIS undergraduate programs. These GIS online courses are fully online. They prep students to use, edit, and analyze GIS data and systems. It’s 65 to 66 credit hours in total. That’s about $10,753 in total tuition. Students may choose a technical elective. Consider specializing your education in topics like Web GIS and Advanced Spatial Analysis. The program is accredited by the HLC.
Bismarck State College – Associate in Applied Science in Geographic Information Systems
Bismarck State College’s associate degree is a 2-year STEM program. It teaches students how to use powerful GIS computer-based tools. Then students have competitive skills in geospatial technology for entry-level jobs in the field. The credits of this program can actually go three ways, so go carefully through the application process. They can earn a:
– AAS degree
– Program Certificate
– or Certificate of CompletionThe associate program is 60 credits in total, about $11,549 for total tuition, and is accredited by the HLC. Career prospects in the geographic information systems technician field include:
– Agriculture science
– Natural resources
– City planning
– Environmental monitoring, and moreHarrisburg Area Community College – Associate in Science in Geospatial Technology
This online GIS associate’s degree offers geospatial tech skills. The knowledge is applicable to a variety of industries. Students may pursue concentrations in data acquisition and processing. The program is notable for its variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities. It’s 60 credit hours in total, about $16,320, and is accredited by MSCHE.
Prerequisites for an Online GIS Associate Degree
A GIS associate degree may require prerequisites like a high school diploma or GED. However, these programs do not typically have high admission requirements or prerequisites.
GIS Associate Degree Courses
Online GIS associate degrees cover many introductory topics in the GIS industry, including:
- Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Advanced GIS
- Microcomputer Application Software
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Geographic Information Systems
Online GIS bachelor’s degrees are the most important credentials. Bachelor-level GIS training teaches students how to analyze data. Graduates can use software to make visual representations of geographic or geospatial data.
Generally, a bachelor’s degree is required to qualify for most high-paying GIS-related jobs. For example, if you want to be a GIS analyst or GIS engineer. Some online GIS bachelor’s programs include internships or field experience. This experiential learning can also enhance your resume.
Delta State University – Bachelor of Applied Science in Geospatial Analysis & Intelligence
Delta State University’s bachelor’s program is 120 semester hours in total. In terms of tuition, that’s about $33,440 in total. It’s a 100% online program. One great benefit is that it is available to active-duty military personnel. Students have the option to complete courses on a flexible, part-time basis (e.g., one or two courses at a time) and study year-round. Students can also take advantage of virtual computing support. In other words, if they don’t have a personal computer that is capable of running GIS software packages. The program is accredited by USGIF and SACSCOC.
Troy University – Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems
Expert faculty with field experience lead Troy University’s GIS bachelor’s program. They guide students on how to operate field instruments and collect detailed spatial information. Students also learn to organize field GIS data into geospatial databases. The emphasis of this program is on geospatial technologies. The cost of this program 120-credit program is around $40,560 in total. It is accredited by ASAC and SACSCOC.
Unity College – Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geospatial Technologies
Unity College’s BS in Environmental Geospatial Technology offers eight start dates per year. It’s a 100% online GIS program. Military veterans can take advantage of a per-credit discount. All students can benefit from one-on-one academic and professional advising. The program offers a full-time or part-time schedule and accepts up to 90 transfer credits. It’s 120 credits in total, about $56,400 in total tuition, and is accredited by NECHE.
Oregon State University – Bachelor of Science in Geography & Geospatial Science
Oregon State University’s bachelor’s program trains students to expertly use GIS software. Graduates know how to apply critical thinking and spatial reasoning to create and analyze GIS data. They can also model human and environmental interactions. The program has 180 credits in total. This racks the price to about $57,590 in total tuition. It takes as few as two years with an accelerated schedule. The program is accredited by NWCCU.
University of Massachusetts Global – Bachelor of Business Administration/GIS & Data Analytics
UMass’s online BSBA program offers continuous starts, so students can begin the program at any time. It’s an online, 100% self-paced program that takes 2 to 3 years on average. Graduates know how to manage and organize GIS data. They can make effective spatial visualizations by the end of the program. All online students have access to support coaches throughout this 120-credit program. It’s accredited by WSCUC, and costs around $60,000 in total.
Online GIS Bachelor’s Courses
GIS bachelor’s degrees online and in-person are usually comprised of 120 credit hours. They focus on both professional and applied GIS skills. Most programs require students to complete senior capstone projects at the end in order to graduate. Common courses include topics like
- Introduction to Promote Sensing
- Advanced GIS
- Cartographic Design and Production
Prerequisites
GIS bachelor’s programs require students to have a high school diploma or GED. They must also complete certain prerequisite or general education courses. Students can complete prerequisites in associate programs. They can also be completed in the first two years of a bachelor’s program. Some programs may require a GPA from one’s high school or former schooling above a threshold, like 2.5 or above.
Best GIS Master’s Programs
Online GIS programs at the master's level are graduate degrees. They equip students with advanced geospatial science models and techniques. The best GIS master’s degrees combine practical lessons with research-focused courses. In the end, students understand how spatial data can shape business or environmental policy decisions.
If you’re pursuing government jobs, or seeking higher-paying positions, you will benefit from a master’s degree. Many of the online GIS master’s programs have networking resources students can use to acquire jobs after graduation. Let’s take a look at the top schools to get a master’s in GIS online.
Delta State University – Master of Applied Science in Geogspatial Information Technologies
Delta State University’s master’s in GIS is fully online. It offers flexible study time with no out-of-state fees. There are admission dates for every semester, resulting in multiple start dates per year. The program emphasizes geospatial science and technologies for in-the-field geospatial jobs. In this way, it is perfect for future field technicians and analysts. The program has 30 credit hours, costing around $13,582 in total tuition. Plus, there are two pathways for students with or without undergraduate GIS degrees/professional experience. It’s accredited by SACSCOC.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh – Master of Geospacial Information Science & Technology
This master’s in GIS and technology is offered entirely online. Graduates of this program are very specialized. Coursework includes:
– Client-based instruction
– Geospatial theory
– Hands-on application training with GIS softwareThe curriculum is at least 33 credit hours in total, about $15,242 in total cost. In addition, students must complete a capstone experience in the last semester. The program is accredited by SACSCOC.
Pennsylvania State University – Master of Geographic Information Systems
Penn State’s World Campus offers an excellent MS GIS degree of 36 credits in total. The total tuition cost is around $33,279. There are multiple start dates throughout the year. The curriculum integrates contemporary geospatial technologies and topics. Accelerated admission is an option if you have a 3.67 GPA or higher on the first three courses. Students who qualify don’t have to take the GRE test. They also don’t require letters of recommendation or professional experience.
The program further has a remote sensing and Earth observation certificate opportunity. This component is excellent for resume boosting. Overall it’s accredited by MSCHE.
University of Denver – Master of Science in Geographic Information Science
The University of Denver’s online/hybrid MS in GIS program offers several start dates per year. It offers concentrations in topics like GIS in Public Safety and GIS in the Environment. No GRE or GMAT scores are required and students can complete the program in as few as 18 months. It’s 30 credit hours in total, about $35,232 in total tuition, and is accredited by the HLC.
Johns Hopkins University – Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems
Johns Hopkins University’s program takes between 12 and 24 months to complete, costing around $43,390 in total tuition. It’s ideal for working professionals since classes are 100% online and available full-time or part-time. It’s comprised of 30 courses in total, and there are three start dates throughout the year. The program is accredited by ABET and MSCHE.
Courses of a Master’s in GIS
A master’s in GIS online covers advanced GIS topics like:
- Spatial Computing
- Spatial Analytics
- Fieldwork courses (yes, even online programs)
Depending on the program, you may have to travel for a master’s degree for any in-person requirements.
Master’s GIS Prerequisites
There are still online master’s GIS perquisites. They require students to have completed a bachelor’s in GIS or a related field, like geography or CS. Also, students must complete prerequisite core courses in the GIS field. Furthermore, most master’s programs have GPA requirements, such as above 3.0. The best online GIS graduate programs generally offer certificate programs from the same schools.
Top 5 GIS Graduate Certificates Online
Graduate certificates in GIS are short-term programs. Students can pursue them after earning a bachelor’s degree in GIS or a related field. These certificate programs are typically completed in one year or less.
West Chester University of Pennsylvania – Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
This graduate certificate program is available online, in person, or in a hybrid setting. It’s 12 credits in total. Students may select one elective topic, like geography field models or introduction to business GIS. Students can also choose a GIS-related internship. The certificate provides students with graduate-level GIS knowledge to expand their career options. It’s accredited by MSCHE.
University of Connecticut – Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
The University of Connecticut’s graduate certificate in GIS has decades of successful results. It’s perfect for students with little to no experience in GIS but who want to get into the field. Also, this grad certificate can lead to the Master of Energy and Environmental Management degree. There are two start dates per year for this 12-credit program and it is accredited by NECHE.
University of Wisconsin-Madison – Graduate Certificate in GIS Fundamentals
This GIS Fundamentals Capstone Certificate offers conceptual and methodological foundation topics of GIS technology. All graduates have the basic skills needed to work in the GIS industry. It’s comprised of three courses or nine credits in total. The school is accredited by the HLC.
Northeastern University – Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
Northeastern University’s graduate certificate takes as few as six months to complete. Online students can take advantage of full-time or part-time scheduling. Also, there are four start dates per year. Students will benefit with hands-on training in GIS software and hardware. It’s 100% online and the credits can go toward a Master of Professional Studies in Geospatial Services. The NECHE-accredited program is 16 quarter hours in total.
University of West Florida – Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science
The University of West Florida’s GIS graduate certificate takes around 12 months to complete. It has 24 credit hours in total. It’s very affordable and offers up to six transfer credits. In addition, there are several start dates per year. The dedicated faculty of this school brings extensive GIS experience to the virtual classroom. The program is fully accredited by SACSCOC.
Is a Grad Certificate in GIS Worth It?
Say you have a bachelor’s in GIS and want to improve your employment prospects. In that case, a grad certificate in GIS is worth it. They’re particularly ideal if you don’t want to pursue a master’s degree. But they can also be good if you want to learn some advanced geographic information systems topics. That way, you’ll have the skills to handle GIS equipment or perform geospatial data analysis.
A GIS graduate certificate is advantageous. Especially if you want to further specialize your career or give your professional future more options.
Prerequisites
Graduate certificates in GIS require students to complete core courses in math and computer science. They also require students to complete a bachelor’s degree and meet a GPA threshold, such as 2.5 or above.
GIS Ph.D. Online
At the time of this writing, there aren’t any online GIS Ph.D. programs since Ph.D. degrees are typically oriented toward doctor or research positions. While GIS as an industry does include some research, it’s more of a practical field. So no accredited schools offer online Ph.D. degrees (yet) due to a lack of demand.
Skills for a GIS Degree
Some of the most important skills for a GIS degree include:
- Comfort with computer systems and technology
- Math skills
- Understanding of statistics
- Good spatial understanding/orientation
- Cartographic/map-making skills
- Strong writing skills (since you’ll need to present your findings or analyses to clients or employers)
How to Choose an Online GIS Degree
When choosing an online GIS program, you should look at the following factors:
- Cost – Some schools are more affordable than others. This can impact which degrees you pursue. View the most affordable GIS programs at the master’s level.
- Accreditation – As described earlier, try to find a school with ABET accreditation. The best online GIS programs also have regional accreditation.
- Online program requirements – Most online GIS degrees are 100% online. But some may require in-person residencies or weekends from time to time
- Admission requirements – The best online GIS degrees have high admission requirements. For example, a high GPA threshold or letters of recommendation requirements
- Concentrations – Depending on your goals, one program may offer a focus you’re interested in compared to another
What Can I Do with an Online GIS Degree?
A GIS degree will allow you to work as a GIS technician, analyst, and advisor that works in many different industries and jobs. You’ll operate advanced equipment that few know how to use. This will allow you to collect a good GIS salary and enjoy a career with high advancement potential.
For example, you can work as a GIS technician or analyst. These professionals collect and analyze geospatial data for land development companies. With your skills, you’ll be able to advise the company in terms of:
- Where it should develop for real estate sales
- Whether land erosion has left one area or another unsuitable for development, etc.
You can also work for telecommunications or tech companies. In these roles, you’d design navigation systems and applications. For instance, you may be able to work for a GPS company, offering GIS skills to help them provide more accurate geospatial data to customers.
How Much Do GIS Jobs Pay?
Once you have a bachelor’s degree in GIS, you’ll have a wealth of career opportunities open to you at a variety of salary levels. These include:
- Surveying and mapping technicians, who make $46,910 per year and who have a job growth rate of 4%
- Geographers, who make $85,220 per year and who have a job growth rate of 0%
- Cartographers and photogrammetrists, who make $68,900 per year and who have a 3% job growth rate
- Civil engineers, who make $88,050 per year and who have a 7% job growth rate
- Landscape architects, who make $67,950 per year and who have a 0% job growth rate
- Surveyors, who make $61,600 per year and who have a 1% job growth rate
GIS degree salaries are good in most cases and have potential for growth over time.
GIS Industry Certifications
In the GIS industry, certifications can be valuable. Some degrees lead to GIS certifications, but not all. Entry-level GIS positions don’t require GIS certifications. However, advanced administrative or managerial positions may require them.
Some GIS jobs, like GPS tracking or app development, may require additional courses or certificates. That way you can prove you have the skills needed to complete these jobs. Regardless, earning a GIS industry certificate can only improve your career prospects.
Some of the best GIS industry certifications to earn include:
- ASPRS certification from the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing. This is ideal for GIS technologists and similar professionals. It showcases specialty in the remote sensing and photogrammetry industry
- Esri technical certification, which showcases your expertise in GIS and coding languages. These certifications are available at both basic and specialty levels
- Remote sensing and earth observation certificates from universities like Penn State World Campus. These emphasize foundational knowledge in image analysis in GIS. So they’re ideal for entry-level GIS technicians
FAQs
How much do GIS jobs pay?
GIS jobs pay good money at most levels. Higher-paid GIS professionals can earn upwards of $80,000 or $100,000 per year. But the median GIS professional earns around $60,000 per year.
Is a master’s in GIS worth it?
A master’s in GIS is worth it if you want to earn more money. A master’s GIS degree salary is generally higher than a bachelor’s degree salary—by $20,000 or much more.
A master’s degree in GIS could be a great idea if you want a managerial or administrative job and expanding your career potential in the GIS industry. Plus they give you a chance to specialize your GIS skills. For example, in areas like data management, geospatial graphing, or app development.
How long is a GIS degree?
A GIS degree can range from two years to four years long. Associate degrees typically take two years, as do master’s degrees after earning a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree takes four years from start to finish. A bachelor’s includes the two years needed to complete the classes in a typical associate degree.
What are the requirements to study GIS?
Most GIS programs require you to meet a GPA threshold. Plus, you may need to complete prerequisite courses in computer science, statistics, and data analysis. Graduate programs may require letters of recommendation and statements of intent from applicants.
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